Eight Indigenous men and women successfully completed a seven-week Introduction to Millwrighting (ITM) Program to become millwright apprentices, and have begun their careers as millwrights in the nuclear industry with Local 1592.
This first-of-a-kind training program is a partnership between the Millwright Regional Council of Ontario (MRCO), the Organization of Canadian Nuclear Industries (OCNI), the First Nations Power Authority (FNPA), Huronia Area Aboriginal Management Board (HAAMB), the Aboriginal Apprenticeship Board of Ontario (AABO), and Bruce Power.
Cathy Sprague, Bruce Power’s Executive Vice President, Human Resources, looks forward to these candidates pursuing opportunities to support the company’s Life-Extension Program through career opportunities with Bruce Power and its nuclear supply chain.
“This program model is the first of its kind that can be easily replicated to increase the entry of Indigenous candidates into the trades,” said Sprague. “This model also demonstrates the successful collaboration between Bruce Power and our suppliers and community partners. Congratulations to the eight candidates who gave their full commitment to completing this program. We wish them continued success as they move forward into their apprenticeship and millwright careers.”
The training program was held at Bruce Power’s training facility in Underwood and candidates were referred to the program through the company’s Indigenous Employment Program.
“We wanted to ensure that local Indigenous talent was included in this training model that is supported by a collaborative community network,” said Rozella Johnston, Indigenous Employment Team at Bruce Power.
Financial support for the program was provided by OCNI and FNPA through a Skills Development Fund grant by Ontario’s Ministry of Labour, Training and Skills Development. In addition, the Grey Bruce Adult Learning Centre was on site to provide academic upgrading and support throughout the training period.
“Opening doors and partnering is the true testament of what can come when we work together,” said Carlene Keeshig, Special Projects Coordinator at HAAMB. “We are proud of our members from Saugeen and Nawash for taking the leap and trusting in this life changing opportunity. And we say Chi-Miigwetch to everyone that played a part in this amazing project.”
“AABO is extremely excited for the Indigenous candidates who completed the ITM program and are now on their path to meaningful careers in the Millwright Trade,” said Danny Deleary, Community Engagement Coordinator at AABO. “We extend our “Chi-miigwetch” (Great Thanks) to all the partners who have made this program a success, and look forward to duplicating this success in the future!”
“The program offers individuals an introductory look into what it is to be a millwright and spark their pursuit of becoming a fully licensed Millwright with our Millwright Regional Council and our industry partners,” said Duncan McIntosh, Director of Communications, Business Manager, Millwright Local 1592.
“The Introduction to Millwrighting Program is a testament to MRCO’s commitment to diversify the trade,” said Andy Forsyth, Business Development, MRCO. “Being innovative and forward-thinking is required in these times to make much-needed changes in support of these important programs.”
About Bruce Power
Formed in 2001, Bruce Power is an electricity company based in Bruce County, Ontario. We are powered by our people. Our 4,200 employees are the foundation of our accomplishments and are proud of the role they play in safely delivering clean, reliable, low-cost nuclear power to families and businesses across the province and life-saving medical isotopes across the globe. Bruce Power has worked hard to build strong roots in Ontario and is committed to protecting the environment and supporting the communities in which we live. Learn more at www.brucepower.com and follow us on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Instagram and YouTube.
